How to Say ‘He's away from his desk’ in Japanese
席を外しております
seki o hazushi te ori masu
[seh-kee oh hah-ZOO-shee teh OH-ree mahs]
💬 Usage Tip: おります is the humble form of います "is (present)". Staff use it about their own colleagues to sound modest toward the caller.
Phrase Breakdown
席
seki
[seh-kee]
seat
A seat or seating section at a venue.
前の方の席はありますか。
Are there seats toward the front?
を
o
[oh]
object marker
The particle を marks the direct object of a verb.
チケットを二枚ください。
Two tickets, please.
外し
hazushi
[hah-ZOO-shee]
remove
Stem of 外す, to remove or take away.
眼鏡を外します。
I take off my glasses.
て
te
[teh]
and; -te form
A linking form used to connect verbs to following grammar, such as progressive or polite forms.
仕事を探している人と話しました。
I spoke with a person who is looking for work.
おり
ori
[OH-ree]
to be (humble); doing (humble form)
Stem of the humble verb oru, used in place of iru to show respect to the listener, common in service language.
ご来店をお待ちしております。
We look forward to your visit.
ます
masu
[mahs]
polite verb ending
A standard polite ending added to verbs, often used in customer service and formal speech.
予約を確認し ます。
I will confirm the reservation.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager